Rediscover ancient traditions whilst enjoying the delights of Réunion Island’s cuisine. This is the challenge that the restaurant, La Marmite at l’Hermitage on the west coast of the island has set for itself. This convivial and warm address aims to recreate the long lost atmosphere of the Creole cuisine. An ambitious goal whose result is amazing.

La Marmite, located in a remote and quiet spot, opened its doors six years ago. You can sample a wide range of excellent Creole cuisine in an exceptional décor opposite the sea. Thanks to its authentic Creole cuisine, the restaurant keeps on attracting several new guests.

Once across the threshold, one finds oneself plunged in the local décor of the 1950’s. An original local decorative theme runs through the restaurant, with traditional rum bottles and a backdrop of local music such as the séga. Yet first and foremost there is a buffet presented around a wood fire cooking area, offering 18 local dishes, served in cast iron cooking pots.

The chefs’ specialty is the “octopus stew” (commonly known as “le civet zourite” in Réunion Island). Everyday, this dish is freshly prepared in order to cater to the wishes of the clientele. However the chef does not stop there. There is also chicken in coconut milk, vanilla duck, smoked pork with potatoes, fish curry … there’s something for everyone.

As Armelle, the head chef and manager of the restaurant explains, “I try to cook all the popular local specialties so that there’s something for everybody. Very often, after work, people do not feel like cooking, so our restaurant gives them the opportunity to enjoy local cuisine, without having to prepare it themselves.”

18 local dishes in cast iron pots

This family business was established to restore the local cuisine, its real strengths. Even if time has not removed its flavors to the island, the true traditions tend to be lost: "Fifty years ago, we do not serve meals at the table in Reunion island, each would be used directly in the pot on the fire, "said Armelle, regretting the time friendly.

The restaurant is always full now, it seems that the public be charmed by these returns to the sources. Customers are happy to discover or rediscover the atmosphere. The aim is primarily to meet the inhabitants of the island by showing that traditions are not forgotten, but also to promote the culture of Reunion through its major asset: the kitchen.

This was achieved for La Marmite. The product concept and evidence, it is essential to book for the privilege of eating in mémé's pot ...

Text: Béatrice Gonthier